From the beginning of human society, buildings have been constructed to provide shelter and satisfy our aesthetic needs. The built environment is a reflection of our social values. Yet, we are seldom aware of the relationships between society, culture and building technology, which have influenced the development of the architectural forms, which now surround us. The buildings we use daily, serve as environments, which shape our lives. Students will gain cultural understanding and aesthetic appreciation by exploring western architectural examples of the past 5000 years. Through text readings, participation at illustrated lectures, walking tour of Toronto, and preparation of a research paper and portfolio, I help my students discover the links between history, culture, and building technology, which continue to influence our built environment. The course focuses on how we experience architecture as an integrated whole, and the creative process of how a building comes into existence. Based upon this overview of Western Architectural history, students will be encouraged to pursue an ongoing interest in architecture.